Over the past week, Nakuru residents have witnessed closure of bars and entertainment joints popularly referred to as ‘splash’.

The open space setups that music gets to be played as revellers enjoy their drinks, were the first to be affected by the orders issued by interior CS, Kithure Kindki , on the immediate closure of bars and clubs within a 300 meters radius from residential areas and learning institutions. .

Consequently, the past few days, some of these joints have been closed down by the owners willingly while others have been closed by police officers conducting night patrols.

One of the liquor stores in Nakuru city that have been affected by the closure remains deserted on 8th March 2024,

Photo credit: BRET SANYA/MTAA WANGU

In some cases like in Whitehouse estate, police have been captured on video using force to see this happen.

In a video captured by Mtaa Wangu over the weekend, police officers are seen roughing up someone after a confrontation ensued regarding closure of a bar in Whitehouse area. This is followed by gunshots fired in the air.

Protests in Whitehouse estate over arrests and closure of liquor stores

Although owners of these entertainment joints are asking the government to hear their plea, Prof. Kindiki says he will remain relentless in the fight against businesses that sell second alcohol.

Speaking while on his visit in Nakuru to meet the county security team, Prof. Kindiki commended the Nakuru county police commander, Samuel Ndanyi and the County Commissioner, Loyford Kibaara, among other security agencies, on the fighting against illicit brew in Nakuru.

Interior CS Kithure Kindiki while on his visit in Nakuru to meet the county security enforcement team on March 12, 2024.

Photo credit: PURITY KINUTHIA/MTAA WANGU

“We are currently having a crackdown to whip out individuals peddling drugs and selling poisonous alcohol. The operation has been ongoing since March 6,2023. We are not destroying any legitimate business but criminals who manufacture, sell, distribute and consume narcotic drugs and illicit and toxic killer brews,” he affirmed.

He further sounded a warning to public officers in Nakuru county who are involved in law enforcement but have been conflicted, adding that all security agencies with an interest in the second-generation alcohol should stop or have to leave the service.

With his clear statements in regards to the extended closer of the bars, bar business owners Nakuru might witness an extended period of their business being under lock and key.

Also mentioned was the presence of security enforcers to ensure that no bars run while they are supposed to be closed.

Wanjirukinuthia20@gmail.com

Kindiki defends closure of drinking joints amidst uproar from Nakuru bar owners

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Purity Kinuthia